Abstract: A communication system is provided in which a client device can communicate with a server via any one of plural communication networks, such as a WWAN, a WLAN, a wired LAN, a personal area network (e.g., Bluetooth), and any other networking architecture. More specifically, the communication client comprises a connection manager that is adapted to determine availability of each the plural communication networks to communicate data between the client and the server, select one of the communication networks from the available ones of the plural communication networks in accordance with predetermined preferences, and establish a connection with the selected one of the communication networks. The client may further comprise a client application. The connection manager provides a notification message to the client application upon establishment of the communication link. The client application then communicates data to and from the server via the selected one of the communication networks.

Abstract: A system and method for transforming a plurality of existing non-web services enabled functional services so as to appear to a web services consumer and to a UDDI server to be a plurality of individual web services. The system includes a web services transformer which acts as a translator and a proxy server for the plurality of non-web services enabled functional services.

Abstract: The invention permits network management services, utilized by a user via a software based console, used on any network connected device, viewed as a web page via the internet. Dynamic updating of the devices available to the console is performed by a Multicast Discovery Protocol. Multicast Remote Procedure Calls permit simultaneous command processing among an authorized target group of devices. A Multicast File Transfer Protocol permits time and bandwidth efficient one to many file transfers via a data stream at a pre-specified address which many clients simultaneously monitor. Hand shaking for the transfer is rotated among the clients so that they may each recover any lost data frames. Use of client registries for storing network data allows clients to be automatically configured upon connection to the network. Virtual monitoring and control over the clients may be exercised from the console by executing remote procedure calls.

Abstract: An improved container for the storage and dispensing of fluids comprising a substantially rigid support container having a pouring and receiving mouth, a collapsible, fluid impermeable container disposed within and supported by the support container, the collapsible container communicating with the mouth of the support container, and primary sealing assembly supported by the support container and movable between a first position for selectively opening the collapsible container and a second position for closing or sealing the collapsible container. A handle assembly for the support container is also provided, the handle assembly having an elongated upper segment substantially normally disposed to a central elongated axis of the support container and adapted to receive the primary sealing assembly of the container.